How to win the budget battle

You Potterheads probably remember this quote:

“Dark and difficult times lie ahead, Harry. Soon we must all make the choice between what is right and what is easy.”

But did you know Dumbledore was actually talking to Harry about sticking to his budget?

Now, that is a load of crap might not be true, but it fits. Inflation has been a pain in almost everyone’s It-That-Must-Not-Be-Named, so it’s time to take action and take control of our budgets. Here’s how:

Financial yoga: Let’s be real, if you haven’t adjusted your budget in the last couple years, you’re waaaaay overdue. If your budget is old, it’s time to practice financial yoga. That is, you need to make sure it’s flexible. Save for the future, pay bills, and then everything else comes after that. Those weekly splurges might need to become monthly splurges (get it over it, dude).

Check your settings: If you’re automating bill pay and/or direct deposits, then honestly you just need a little self-control and you should be good to go. If your financial institution is paying all of your bills every month, and your paycheck is getting put into the right accounts, the only real issue you might be having is how you’re spending what’s left. So take it easy and try not to “make it rain” everywhere you go.

Observe and report: Take a look at how much your bills have changed month-to-month and give yourself a pep talk about the results. Take a nice look in the mirror and say, “Hey pal, you need an extra 72 bucks every month, so it’s time to start buying a few more store brand products … stop crying, you baby.” That last part is not from personal experience. But hey, think about it.